The use of thermoelectric modules to turn excess heat into electricity has been successfully applied in Green Server Prototypes. In fact, the thermoelectric effect, or the ability of various materials to convert heat into electricity and vice versa, dates back to the 19th century.

Until now the rapid loss of heat associated with many types of matter has restricted the effectiveness of thermoelectricity. But researchers at Boston College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) claim to have developed a more efficient way to turn 'waste' heat into electricity by using nanotechnology. According to CNET, scientists "broke down bismuth antimony telluride, a commonly used semiconductor alloy, and reconstituted it in a way that slowed the passage of phonons, caused by vibration, through it."

"By using nanotechnology, we have found a way to improve an old material by breaking it up and then rebuilding it in a composite of nanostructures in bulk form," said Boston College physicist Zhifeng Ren, one of the leaders of the project.

Bismuth antimony telluride's relatively low cost could open up a whole new frontier in efficient thermoelectric power, increasing the potency of photovoltaic panels and enabling vehicle electronics to draw power from exhaust heat.